WOW!!! Tough crowd. I do feel sorry for you though because you have officially been sucked into the vortex and it has a strong appitite for wallet contents, be it paper or plastic. Great looking pen. My suggestion is this and this alone. Use your bushings to get you there but use your Calipers to fit it exact. I love this link and share it with everyone. Check it out. Lots of great tips.
http://kurthertzog.com/demos.htm
The top portion has great articles, 'Woodturning Design Magazine "Journey from Penturning to Penmaking" Column'
Good first pen, Steve. Keep at it and you'll be amazed at your learning curve as you progress. Don't be afraid to try a larger diameter pen. I think you'll find they are actually easier to turn and learn from. Good luck.
John
Now you need to double what you thought the max you would ever spend on pen making and add a little...
The guy did not ask about his pic, he asked about his pen, which, for a first time looks pretty good to me.
And, before you critique a pic you should take a much closer look at your pics and work on correcting them.
Mark, I had the same thoughts as you when I read Luke's post. I almost fired off a response that would have been similar to your own. However, after checking his profile and reading a few of his posts, I see that he is only fifteen, and seems very enthusiastic about this hobby. I'm sure that he didn't intend to seem negative and condescending, though it could be taken that way. I'm sure he only meant to be helpful, so I let it slide.
Now you need to double what you thought the max you would ever spend on pen making and add a little...
This is My first Pen i turned...made from Orange Citrus Wood .. helpful hints are welcome..steve
the best tip i have for you is use a wood file when you get close to the end keeps you form going to far and you can form it better.